Academy for Human Rights

Founded in 2008 by several teachers in the Buffalo area, the Summer Institute is designed for students who are interested in politics, history, international relations, or the social sciences. It provides its participants with the opportunity to hear human rights experts, historians, and advocates, as well as take part in hands-on activities, discussions, and field trips--all to inspire its students to have a positive impact on the world. Recognized by C-SPAN and the winner of both local and national education awards, its alumni have gone on to pursue careers in journalism, law, politics, medicine, education, and human services. Mission Statement: The Summer Institute is a non-denominational, non-partisan program designed to provide in-depth human rights education for local high school students and teachers. Whether it is through understanding the history of the Holocaust, contemporary genocide, or human rights issues, the goal of the Institute is to broaden and deepen the knowledge base of its students, so that they may in turn make a difference in their communities, nation, and world. Goals: To help our participants have the knowledge and skills necessary to lead a contributory live in their communities, nation, and world--especially in the arena of human rights education and genocide prevention. To cultivate the next generation of concerned citizens and activists that are necessary for the health of our democracy and civil society. To provide examples of past and current role models of citizen-leaders so that our students can stand on their shoulders to help repair the world. To help educators, civic leaders, and citizens become empowered to take part in their communities to promote tolerance, understanding, and our shared humanity.